Hi,

I need help in replacing the alternator on my 85 Maxima. Consider me a novice. Simple question. How do you take out the alternator. I have taken out 2 screws (top and bottom) that I visibly saw. Obviously, there's another screw that's holding it that I can't see. Any advice? I have a/c. Do I have to remove the a/c to get access to the alternator? Can I do it all from under the car?

I pre-search through most of the posting but didn't find one to this simple query. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

Make sure you remove the negative terminal on the battery first.

The alternator has 2 bolts that holds it in place , 12mm socket/wrench will get them loose and off. It's hard to see both of them but it's there on top. Also there is the 1 bolt holding it to the adjustment bracket. 10mm bolt that you turn to loosen and adjust the alternator drive belt. Screws and nuts for the electrical connections. Yeah and the connector.

Everything is done from the under the car. You don't have to do anything with the ac, but you would have to loosen and remove it's drive belt if your going to replace the alternator's belt.

It really helps to have a manual and see the layout.

First timer should take you less than 2 hours. I have replaced mine alternator 4 times now and can do it in 15 minutes, takes more time to go out and get the alternator.

Good Luck,

Al

 

Im kinda a novice too at cars. If when you turn the key the car chugs only once and dies out and you hear the clickin from the starter, that would mean the alternator is shot right?? Thanx

 

[B]Im kinda a novice too at cars. If when you turn the key the car chugs only once and dies out and you hear the clickin from the starter, that would mean the alternator is shot right?? Thanx

Well that clicking sound could mean the alternator is bad, but more than likely it's the battery. Winter is here and weak batteries will show their age by not holding their charge. I just comfirmed that on my friend's car. Then she went to a gas station and paid $100 for a new battery, but they also checked her charging system out.
To do a quick check on your Max, jump start the car and let it warm up, read the charging voltage on the voltmeter gauge on your dash. It should read about 14.5 volts. If so, good, the alternator is charging. The battery is on its last leg. Also make sure the battery terminals are clean and not loose. And don't overtighten them, easy to break.
Now if the voltmeter reads closer to 12volts, the alternator is not 100%. My alternator did that, read 12-14.5, I waited till it finally died then replaced it, they're about $130 rebuild with a lifetime warranty.
Your a novice alright, now's the time to change that, hope you get some tools and a multimeter for xmas.

Merry Xmas

Al